Maling hoping to post Scarlets victory

Former All Black Simon Maling has come through a late fitness test to be included in the Scarlets line-up for tomorrow's vital Magners League clash against the Cardiff Blues at Parc y Scarlets.

On the downside however, a number of players were ruled out for selection. Prop Iestyn Thomas, fullback Morgan Stoddart and winger Darren Daniel all failed fitness tests as the Scarlets attempt to win their first game since 24 October.

The Scarlets have once again been forced to put fly-half Rhys Priestland at full-back while Ceiron Thomas finds himself on the wing due to the shortage of fit back-three players in the squad.

Despite the Scarlets failing to fire in Europe this season, Maling said the players are confident of giving the in-form Blues a run for their money.

"Hopefully we can go out there and give it a real rip," said for the Kiwi second row. "I've been out of action for a while with a calf injury and upon reflection I probably tried to come back too soon out in Paris (against Stade Francais) but we were a man down. But hopefully we can go out there and get a win on board.

WRU International Skills Coach Jason Strange is a busy man, combining the new role with that of Wales Under 20 attack coach, Ebbw Vale head coach and continuing to teach at Ebbw Fawr Learning Community.

Warren Gatland and Sam Warburton look ahead to this week's crunch RBS 6 Nations tie against France, where the Wales skipper in particular is keen to make his mark, as Paris has proved a bleak place for him in the past.

Following their historic win over England, Wales Under 20 suffered a narrow, 36-34 loss to their Scottish counterparts last weekend, despite outscoring them by five tries to three. Watch the match highlights and reaction.

WRU TV go behind the scenes with the Wales squad as they put the final touches in place ahead of the clash against Scotland at Murrayfield. Follow the squad on their captain's run, the kickers visit to Murrayfield and Neil Jenkins' press conference